
Group Description
Connect with travelers with disabilities and welcoming locals, offering tips on accessible hotels, wheelchair-friendly attractions, and transportation in Japan. From Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya Crossing and historic Asakusa to Kyoto’s golden Kinkaku-ji, Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, and the hot springs of Hakone, whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this is the place to ask about accommodations, getting around, or inclusive activities – someone here has likely experienced it before. You’ll find personal stories, travel tips, and recommendations for cultural, historical, and nature experiences. This group supports mobility aid users, along with travelers who have sensory sensitivities, low vision, and hearing loss, helping you enjoy a more accessible Japan adventure.
Reply To: Preparing a journey to Japan
Hello, Sorry for the delay.
First of all, I would seriously consider either bringing a wheelchair or renting one while you are here. Japan requires a lot more walking than most people expect, and there are very few benches etc to rest on. So, having a wheelchair to ensure a seat when you need it can help. You can rent power or manual wheelchairs. You can check out: https://www.accessible-japan.com/renting-wheelchairs-hoists-japan/
As for priority access, I’d suggest bringing your European PRM but keep in mind that as a “foreign” card not in Japanese, it may not be recognized. I’d suggest getting a “Help Mark” lanyard from the subway in Tokyo: https://www.tabifolk.com/groups/japan/forum/topic/planning-trip-to-japan/
Medications are more restricted here, so be sure to look at this: https://www.accessible-japan.com/bringing-medicine-to-japan/
Nikko
Toshogu is partly accessible, but expect quite a bit of pushing through gravel: https://www.accessible-japan.com/places/japan/tochigi-1/nikko/attractions/nikko-toshogu-shrine/
I’m not sure about the other two, but you may want to consider using a taxi in Nikko.
Hakone
The cable cars are all wheelchair accessible but remember the entire area is quite mountainous, and there certainly can be steep areas.
See this about the shrine: https://www.tabifolk.com/groups/japan/forum/topic/wheelchair-accessibility-of-hakone-jinja-shrine/
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Hope this helps! If you have further questions, please be sure to ask – we’re here to help! (It is best to separate questions a bit so answers can be more focused)